Companies used to be able to function with autocratic bosses. We don't live in that world anymore.

You can always buy something in English, you can't always sell something in English.

To stay ahead, you must have your next idea waiting in the wings.

The difference between "winners" and "losers" is not whether they face obstacles and setbacks - we all do, and it is inevitable that plans do not unfold exactly as imagined or that unexpected events surprise us or that a few mistakes happen. The real difference is that "winners" bounce back from a fumble or a loss by refusing to panic, analyzing the situation and looking for positive actions they can take to correct the problem, and then go on to resume winning.

I wonder whether there has been too much emphasis on teaching women to conform, to fit into the system. Certainly that suits conservative organizations in conservative times. But now ... innovation and creativity are necessary.

Innovation is an outgrowth of initiative, and initiative - taking positive actions in a belief that your actions can make a difference - is a big part of confidence.

People who are making decisions about the future often don't have access to some of the best ideas in the company, which may be at the periphery or at lower levels.